TVSpy
WBBH is expanding meteorologist Robert Van Winkle’s role with the station. The NBC-affiliate announced on Monday that Southwest Florida TV viewers would be seeing a lot more of Van Winkle in 2011.
Van Winkle, who joined WBBH in 2003, will be the station’s new morning meteorologist. In his new role, Van Winkle will help man the morning anchor desk as well as do “Today” show cut-ins. In addition to his new morning duties, Van Winkle will served as WBBH’s official Community Liaison, making regular appearances at area schools to promote education and help with science studies.
Over his almost 20 years reporting on the weather, Van Winkle has been recognized the Associated Press and was voted Best TV Weathercaster by the Florida Association of Broadcasters in 2005. His trademark newscast sign-off is the American Sign Language gesture for “see you later.”
Van Winkle assumes the morning weathercaster role from Haley Webb, who is on maternity leave from the station. Upon her return, WBBH plans to insert Webb in other newscasts throughout the day.